A long-term approach to selection & training

We place absolute trust in our drivers. They’re the beating heart of our business. To attract and retain the very best drivers in the industry, we take a long-term view in the recruitment process, selecting candidates based on talent, experience and character. Once a driver is hired, we offer ongoing training support and development throughout their career with us.

Our Fleet Team

We’re fortunate to have two experienced ex-drivers on our fleet team who personally lead our driver selection & training process.

Phil Cassidy
Fleet Manager & DGSA

An expert in recruitment and systems, Phil recently picked up the TruckSafe Silver Standard award on behalf of Baku.  Phil personally handles driver recruitment and fleet-specific elements of our QMS.

Donna Whelan
Driver Trainer

Our in-house driver trainer Donna Whelan has a wealth of industry experience, having run her own transport company for a number of years. Donna coaches our drivers on everything that happens on and off the road.

How our Driver Screening works

We have fully qualified dedicated driver trainers who have been trained by the FTA. Before a new driver is recruited, we carry out a rigorous screening process:

  • Candidate selection
  • Interview
  • Driving test
  • Reference checking (previous five year driving record)
  • Certifications – Licence, CPC, Digital Tachograph Card, ADR, Air Freight module 12

At the end of the recruitment process, every new driver must read and sign a Driver Declaration stating that he/she has no convictions (including convictions regarding Misuse of Drugs Act 2015), endorsements or disqualifications, and must confirm that they have no health issues that affect driving.

How our Driver Training works

Irrespective of prior experience, every new Baku driver goes through 5 days of intensive training:

  • Baku Values (Company Orientation)
  • Health, Safety & Security
  • Supervised Driving & Feedback
  • Defensive Driving
  • Systems & IT (trailer tracking, alarms and telematic real time monitoring system)
  • Hazards, Risks and Controls
  • Quality Management System & Daily Audit Procedures
  • Temperature Controlled Trailer Management
  • Clandestine & Security Training
  • Good Distribution Practice (GDP) (approved by the Irish Exporters Association)

In most cases, we’re able to conduct this training in-house, however our Secure Load Training us provided by a qualified FTA-approved trainer. This training includes classroom and practical training and is assessed with a minimum pass score of 80%. Baku complies with EN 12195.

Drive for Baku

Our driver loyalty rates are some of the highest in our industry, which is a testament to our remuneration and development package. If you’re interested in driving with Baku, visit our careers page.